The Political Economy Nexus in Central African Natural Resource Extraction: A Theoretical Framework

The political economy of natural resource extraction in Central Africa, particularly in Malawi, has been a subject of significant scholarly interest due to its impact on local communities and national development strategies. No empirical data will be presented as this article focuses on developing a theoretical framework grounded in existing literature and analytical constructs from political economy theory. The theoretical model developed here provides a robust framework for understanding the dynamics at play within resource extraction contexts in Central Africa, highlighting areas where policy interventions could mitigate conflicts and enhance equitable outcomes. Future research should focus on empirical testing of these theoretical propositions through case studies across different regions and project types. Policy makers can use this model to design more effective governance structures that balance economic development with social justice principles.